Alastair Akenhead is a Pharmaceutical Science undergraduate currently studying at the University of Hertfordshire. He has a passion for problem solving through logical and analytical approaches, as displayed in his use of the Reaxys database. His education includes a BSc in Pharmaceutical Science, an Foundation Degree in Science from North Hertfordshire College, and A-Levels in Chemistry, Biology and Graphic Design. His work experience includes positions as a manager/bartender at Mitchells & Butlers PLC and a pharmacy assistant at Day Lewis Pharmacy. He is an avid runner who has completed two London Marathons, raising over £2400 for charity.

1. Alastair Akenhead
PersonalDetails
51 Manor Lane, 07585552429
Lewisham aa13aay@herts.ac.uk
London
SE13 5QW
Profile
Pharmaceutical Science undergraduate with a passion for problem solving through a logical,
systematic and analytical approach, partly displayed through use of the Reaxys database for
investigating compounds based on their physical and chemical properties. This approach
was established through my keen interest in Physical and Analytical Chemistry.
Educationand Qualifications
2013-Present University of Hertfordshire
BSc (Hons) Pharmaceutical Science, Level 4 Passed, Currently reading Level 5
Modules;
Level 5: Bioscience Research Methods, Principles of Immunology, Chemistry and Analytical
Science, Dosage-Form-Design and Manufacture, Pharmacology.
Level 4: Cell and Microbiology (54%), Human Physiology with Pharmacology (57%),
Introduction to Biochemistry (57%), Molecular Biology and Genetics (50%), Molecular
Structure and Reactivity (64%), Practical and Transferable Skills (73%).
Skills developed;
Extensive practice in report writing has contributed to my improved scientific diction as well
as my ability to structure an easy reading, yet comprehensive report style. Utilization of time
spent within the laboratory for practicals has made for invaluable experience, such as
recrystallization techniques. Emphasis on group work has enabled me to work efficiently
within a team to produce posters and presentations which display the strengths of each
individual in the team.
2013-2014 North Hertfordshire College
Foundation Degree in Science
Eight 15 Credit Modules with a 73% overall average grade including Maths for Science
(81%), Introductory Biology (86%) and Chemistry (76%).
2007-2012 Thomas Tallis School and Sixth-Form College
Three A-Level’s including Chemistry, Biology and Graphic Design.
6 GCSE’s at A*-C, Including Maths, English Language and Sciences.
1 BTEC in sport at 4*Merit level.
Work Experience and Employment
September 2015 Spiegel tent(event), London/
September 2012-August 2015 Mitchells & Butlers PLC London
Manager/Bartender
- Maintained a cash float, calculated profits and kept change stocked up.
- Communicated clearly and effectively with event stewards and organizers in order to
complete a task or to rectify a problem.
- Displayed punctuality and always well presented to give a professional impression to
clients, customers and organizing staff.

2. - Managed a diverse team by setting tasks which played into individual’s strengths.
- Communicated with customers clearly and effectively helped the team reach the
sales targets that were set.
- Good interpersonal skills demonstrated which led to efficient service with the ability to
rectify problems promptly.
October 2011-September 2012 Day Lewis Pharmacy, London
Work Experience – Pharmacy Assistant
- Handled prescriptions by archiving them in alphabetical order.
- Observed members of staff in the pharmacy in order to gauge protocol.
- Actively looked up medicines of interest in the British National Formulary.
PersonalInterests and Achievements
September 2015-Present Student Representative
- Active communicator of course content, interest and reflection between the students
that I represent and the lecturing team to come to conclusions which help to improve
learning experiences.
- Experience in public speaking and presentation giving.
- Empathetic attitude towards other students.
Scientific memberships
British Pharmacological Society and Royal Society of Chemistry member.
October 2015-Present University Pharmacology Society
Opportunities to talk with other students on Pharmacology or Pharmaceutical Science
courses to aid revision and to amplify scientific interests.
Running
Exercise is of large importance to me and what I enjoy the most is going for a run to keep fit
and as well it being an amazing opportunity to think and relax the mind.
London Marathon 2013/2014
Being an avid runner had provided me with the confidence required to undertake the 26.2
mile London marathon in 2013 which I completed in a good time. Taking my experience into
account, I decided to make it a double and attempt another London marathon in 2014. In
doing so, I put my past experience into practice and adjusted my training enough so that I
finished again, except it was in an hours less time than previously. In total I raised over
£2400 for St. Josephs Hospice charity. I hope to run more marathons in the future.
AdditionalSkills
Computing
- Highly competent user of Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint.
Laboratory
- Confidence with safety procedures and aseptic technique. Experience with GC, LC, HPLC,
Flourimetry and UV Spectroscopy.
Referees
Dr Stephen J Hall, Lee Wallace,
School of Life Sciences, Deputy Manager,
University of Hertfordshire, Vintage Inns (Mitchells and Butlers PLC)
Hatfield. West Dunbartonshire.
AL10 9AB G83 8LQ
s.j.hall@herts.ac.uk Ballochhouseballoch@vintageinn.co.uk